Why Metal Roofs Are Cost Efficient

As a roofing contractor I have discovered that metal is the most desirable type of roofing for home owners. I have seen the scenario play out over and over, going out to an estimate and Mr. and Mrs. Jones have their heart set on a new metal roof. They are allured at the thought of putting the last roof on their home and not having to worry about the hassle of replacement in the future. Then they see the price of the metal roof compared to an alternative like composition or 3 tab shingles. Suddenly their opinion changes and their interest quickly swings toward cheaper option.

Looking at a roofing project in the long-term investment mind set is important. The average size roof is 2,500 sq ft. The average price to replace a roof this size is approximately $8,000 using a standard architectural laminate shingle. Upgrading to a metal roof system is going to cost somewhere around $17,500 depending on regional prices. If you look at those two numbers and make a decision based on the immediate cash expense, it seems that the lower cost composition system will be more feasible. However, there are many variables that I would like to bring to your attention that might change your mind concerning the cost of metal roofing.

True Roof Life of Asphalt VS. Metal Roofing

Alright, lets do some simple math. The average composition roof lasts between 12-30 years. 3 tab shingles are in the 12 year range and thicker architectural laminate shingles last up to 30 years. This is true roof life. A metal roof is going to last 50 plus years if installed properly. This means you will need to replace an asphalt based roof 2-3 times in the life of a metal roof. Wow, that alone changes price equation! Now your $8,000 roof is going to cost $24,000 from a “roof life” perspective. Let’s look at a few other ways metal roofing is going to work to save you money.

Solar Reflectivity

Metal roofing panels come manufactured in cool roof colors. Cool roof colors are lighter colors such as white or very light blue that reflect the sun’s rays at a higher rate than standard colors. The solar reflectivity rate can range from 25%-70%. This is going to keep your home cooler in the summer reducing the need to turn on your air conditioner. This will help reduce your energy bill making your roof work for you!

Energy Star Tax Credit

Sustainable building products are in high demand due to environmental concerns. Incentives have been released such as the Energy Star Federal Tax credit which reward home owners for using environmental friendly building products. Using an Energy Star rated metal roof can earn you a tax rebate of up to 30%. This is another example of how a metal roof can save you money over time!

Insurance Savings

When it comes to home insurance both the regional weather and the type of roof on your home are key components to how much you will spend to protect your home. Different types of roofing carry different wind, fire and hail ratings. Those ratings are put into classes such as class A, B, or C, with A being the highest or most resistant to a particular element. Metal panels carry the highest fire and hail rating available. In many cases you can receive a reduced insurance rate with a metal roof. This applies especially in geographic areas where hail storms are part of the inclement weather system.

If you add up the benefits of using a metal roof you can see that it is a cost effective choice. If you are considering a new roof for your home or business contact a professional roofing contractor in your area.